Among thousands of people, only a rare few strive for perfection; and among those who attain perfection, scarcely one truly understands Me. Description Jñāna refers to knowledge acquired through the use of the mind, senses, and intellect, whereas vijñāna (wisdom) is the knowledge gained through spiritual practice—an experiential realization, not to be confused with mere …
I will now impart to you complete knowledge and wisdom, after understanding which, nothing else in this world will remain unknown to you. Description Jñāna refers to knowledge acquired through the use of the mind, senses, and intellect, whereas vijñāna (wisdom) is the knowledge gained through spiritual practice—an experiential realization, not to be confused with …
The Supreme Lord said: “Listen now, O Arjun, how by focusing your mind solely on Me and surrendering to Me through the practice of bhakti yoga, you can fully understand Me without any doubt.” Description While concluding the previous chapter, Shree Krishna emphasized that the best yogis are those who devote themselves entirely to God …
Of all yogis, those whose personalities are constantly caught up in Me, and who take part in dedication to Me with extraordinary confidence, them I view as the most elevated of all. Description Indeed, even among yogis, there are karm yogis, bhakti yogis, jñāna yogis, aṣhṭāṅg yogis, and so on. This stanza settles the discussion …
A yogi is better than the tapasvī (parsimonious), better than the jñānī (an individual of learning), and, surprisingly, better than the karmī (formal entertainer). In this manner, O Arjun, endeavor to be a yogi. Description A tapasvī (parsimonious) is one who acknowledges willful embarrassment and carries on with a very somber way of life, ceasing …
Due to the strength of their past spiritual practices, these seekers are naturally drawn toward God, often unconsciously, and transcend the ritualistic aspects of the scriptures. Description Once spiritual tendencies take root, they cannot be erased. A soul with devotional impressions from past lives is naturally drawn to spirituality, experiencing what is known as “the …
Due to the strength of their past spiritual practices, these seekers are naturally drawn toward God, often unconsciously, and transcend the ritualistic aspects of the scriptures. Description Once spiritual tendencies take root, they cannot be erased. A soul with devotional impressions from past lives is naturally drawn to spirituality, experiencing what is known as “the …
Upon rebirth, these souls regain the spiritual wisdom from their past lives and work even more diligently toward achieving perfection in yoga. Description God, who is just and aware of our past spiritual progress, ensures that we receive the fruits of our previous efforts when the time is right. This explains why some people suddenly …
After death, unsuccessful yogis are reborn either into a virtuous and prosperous family or into a family with divine wisdom if they had practiced yoga extensively. Such a birth is rare and valuable. Description Unsuccessful yogis are sometimes sent to celestial abodes to experience material enjoyment (bhog) as a way to realize its futility. Afterward, …
The Supreme Lord said: O Parth, one who embarks on the spiritual path does not face destruction either in this world or the next. My dear friend, one who strives for God-realization is never defeated by evil. Description The word “Tāta” is a term of endearment that literally means “son.” By addressing Arjun as Tāta …
